MasterCraft Adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to Pontoons

MasterCraft Boat Holdings is integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into the helm displays of its pontoon boats beginning with the 2027 model year. The technology debuts next month across all new Balise luxury performance models, as well as the Crest Conquest and Caribbean models. The announcement and live on-water demonstrations took place during Crest Marine's annual dealer meeting at Lake Lansing.

To address the limitations of standard automotive mapping, the system utilizes a partnership with the Savvy Navvy marine navigation app. This integration provides captains with nautical charts, GPS tracking, smart routing, tidal data, and live weather forecasts directly on the helm display. The system allows users to plan trips on a smartphone or tablet and have the data automatically populate upon boarding.

Customers purchasing 2027 models will receive access to Savvy Navvy Premium. Existing boat owners can access the updated app via any compatible aftermarket head unit that supports CarPlay or Android Auto. Jelte Liebrand, CEO of Savvy Navvy, stated that the move responds to years of requests from boaters for a modern infotainment system.